The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cary, NC and Union, MO
If you are planning a road trip from Cary, North Carolina, to Union, Missouri, get ready for a scenic adventure through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the United States. This road trip covers around 900 miles and takes about 14-15 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
The route passes through six states - North Carolina, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, and finally Missouri. The trip highlights include beautiful mountains, small towns, historical landmarks, and plenty of parks and hiking trails to stretch your legs.
The halfway point of the trip is Mt. Sterling, KY, where visitors can explore Daniel Boone National Forest and enjoy scenic drives, hiking, and camping.
Here are the top five must-visit places along the road trip route:
1. Asheville, NC
Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, Asheville is a vibrant city known for its art, music, and beer scene. Visitors can explore the historic Biltmore Estate, a magnificent French Renaissance chateau, or hike in the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Interesting fact: Asheville is home to the famous Vanderbilt family estate, the largest privately-owned house in the United States, covering 8,000 acres and featuring 250 rooms.
2. Charleston, WV
The capital city of West Virginia, Charleston is a charming town with a rich history. Visitors can tour the West Virginia State Capitol, hike in nearby Kanawha State Forest, or visit the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences.
Interesting fact: Charleston is home to the world's first brick street, known as "Summers Street," built in 1870.
3. Louisville, KY
Known as the "Gateway to the South," Louisville is a cultural hub with a famous horse-racing and bourbon tradition. Visitors can tour the Kentucky Derby Museum, the Muhammad Ali Center, or visit Churchill Downs, the site of the annual Kentucky Derby.
Interesting fact: Louisville is known for creating the famous sandwich, the Hot Brown, which was first served at the Brown Hotel in the 1920s.
4. Indianapolis, IN
The capital of Indiana, Indianapolis is a bustling city with a thriving sports scene. Visitors can explore the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the site of the famous Indy 500, or the Indianapolis Museum of Art.
Interesting fact: Indianapolis is home to the largest children's museum in the world, covering over 472,000 square feet.
5. St. Louis, MO
Known as the "Gateway to the West," St. Louis is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions to visit. Visitors can climb the iconic Gateway Arch, tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, or explore the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Interesting fact: St. Louis is home to the largest mosaic mural in the world, covering 2,700 square feet and made up of over 140,000 tiles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the road trip from Cary, North Carolina, to Union, Missouri, is an unforgettable journey through some of the most beautiful states in the United States. With so many attractions to visit along the way, this road trip is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for adventure. The trip takes about 14-15 hours, not including stops and sightseeing, and covers around 900 miles. So, pack your bags, fill up the tank, and hit the road for an amazing experience.